Turnaround times
The quoted turnaround time is from sample receipt in the laboratory, to results authorisation in the Laboratory Information Management system. The times do not include transport of specimen to the laboratory or the administrative process to print and post/email reports. Service users must allow for transport and reporting time when ordering tests.
Clinical background:
A measure of lymphocyte turnover, raised in myeloma and lymphoma. It is useful in initial diagnosis.
Specimen container paediatric:
Serum
Specimen container adult:
Serum
Minimum volume paediatric:
0.5 mL
Minimum volume adult:
1 mL
Sample stability:
Unseparated sample: 24 hours
Separated sample: 3 days at 15 to 25°C, 3 days at 2 to 8°C, 6 months at -2°C.
Add on test:
All urgent add ons via telephone on 0191 282 4766, and must be confirmed via email to the appropriate email address. For add on sample must have met requirements of receipttnu-[email protected]
Quality assurance:
UK NEQAS for B2MICROGLOBULIN
Interpretation:
Raised levels are also seen in some infections, in particular HIV. In renal haemodialysis very high levels may be seen, these may be associated with amyloid formation. High levels are seen in allograft rejection.
Reference ranges:
Normal Range: 0.8 – 2.2 mg/L
Other info:
Lithium heparin plasma samples also acceptable